howtosupplement
Inflammation/Mobility/Digestion

Boswellia

Herbal resin extract that inhibits inflammatory enzymes and may reduce joint pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel symptoms.

Boswellia

Boswellia

58
score
B
evidence
Caution
risk
Quick Take

Worth considering for knee osteoarthritis or ulcerative colitis; limited return for general wellness.

Boswellia serrata is a tree resin used in Ayurvedic medicine, yielding boswellic acids (notably AKBA). It works mainly by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase, which lowers pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. The best evidence is for easing knee osteoarthritis pain and improving function; smaller studies suggest benefit in ulcerative colitis and asthma. People with chronic inflammatory conditions are the most likely to notice a meaningful effect.

Proven Benefits

01
Improves knee OA pain/function
02
Improves UC symptoms
03
May lower inflammation
04
May improve asthma symptoms
05
May improve RA symptoms
06
May improve psoriasis symptoms

Protocol

Amount
300-500 mg
Frequency
2-3 times daily
When
With meals to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.

Onset Time

4-8 weeks for joint pain; 4-6 weeks for digestive symptoms.

Who Should Consider

Adults with knee osteoarthritis
People with ulcerative colitis
People with chronic inflammatory joint pain
Those who want a non-NSAID OA option

How It Works

Boswellic acids, particularly acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), selectively inhibit 5-lipoxygenase, reducing synthesis of pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. They also modulate NF-κB, TNF-α, and other cytokine pathways, collectively dampening localized and systemic inflammation.

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